WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Vapor Technology Association (VTA) issued the following statement on Deregulation Day at the White House, specifically addressing the importance of eliminating regulations that threaten public health.

“VTA thanks the Trump Administration and FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb for the significant steps they have taken to address the promise of e-cigarettes and vapor products by delaying the one enforcement deadline that would have eliminated virtually all of these products from the market,” said Tony Abboud, VTA’s Executive Director. “This decision, and the broader policy outlined by Commissioner Gottlieb on July 28, 2017, recognizes the harm reduction and life-saving potential of vapor products for the first time in the United States.”

“However, now the FDA must move quickly to eliminate those parts of the prior administration’s one-size-fits-all regulation of e-cigarettes as tobacco products, and replace them with a rational regulatory scheme which acknowledges the fact that these rapidly evolving and innovative technologies, if given the chance, will make the combustible cigarette obsolete.”

“Everyone is aware that consumer technology companies develop new and safer products in cycles of months. However, the prior administration’s regulation has limited the U.S. market to carrying products that are now at least two years old and will prevent anything new from coming to market for the next 5-6 years. What this means is that adult smokers in the U.S. will be forced to rely on antiquated products and, more importantly, will be deprived of the rapidly developing innovations that are making vapor products more effective and safer,” Abboud said.

“Reshaping the regulations governing e-cigarettes and vapor technology products will not only save thousands of small businesses and tens of thousands of jobs, it will save lives by ensuring that these game-changing technology products can be brought to market for the millions of adult smokers who are desperately trying to quit,” Abboud said.

“VTA and its members are developing strict industry standards and responsible regulations that protect children from vapor while ensuring the safety and integrity of vaping products used by adult consumers. On behalf of the thousands of large and small business owners who represent the vapor industry in the United States today, VTA looks forward to continuing to work with HHS and the FDA to establish the appropriate standards that will ensure that safe, innovative, and well-manufactured vapor products remain on the market.”

The Administration’s focus on removing and replacing these regulations will save lives.

The Vapor Technology Association represents the manufacturers, wholesalers, vape shops, small business owners and entrepreneurs who have developed innovative and quality vapor products, providing adult consumers with a better alternative to traditional combustible products. VTA and its members are leaders in the vapor community, promoting small businesses and job growth, responsible public policies and regulations, and strong industry standards.

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